The Hancock County Health Department is pleased to announce it has received a limited supply of Shingles Vaccines through a grant from the State of WV Immunization Program. The vaccine is available to any West Virginia resident 60 years of age or older at the cost of $30.00 regardless of income or insurance coverage. The Health Department accepts cash, check, or credit cards for payment. Residents must call the Health Department to make an appointment to be vaccinated.

Michelle Truax RN, Nursing Supervisor for the Health Department states, “If you’ve had the chickenpox, you are at risk for Shingles. You’re at a greater risk as you get older.”

The Shingles Prevention Study found the Shingles vaccine significantly reduced disease in people aged 60 years and older.

“Studies show that 1 in 3 people will get Shingles during their lifetime. Shingles can strike at any time and can be very painful. We were fortunate  to receive an additional supply from the State and are very pleased that we are able to vaccinate our senior residents at such a low cost to them.”, Truax added.

The CDC recommends that people aged 60 years and older get one dose of shingles vaccine. The shingles vaccine is also approved by FDA.

For more information, contact the Health Department at 304-564-3343.